Rory Block: From the Dust

Block's fresh originals dig into our daily lives and reflect upon the way we feel about ourselves. Spiritual themes and country ballads tell stories about the land and the way we operate with what we've got.

Robert Johnson's "Stones in my Passageway" brings a convincing tale about lovin' and leavin'. Block has paid her dues. She communicates fullness in each song. "Dry Spell Blues," by Son House, applies equally to the fate of the small landowner as to that of the Wall Street executive. We're all in the same boat when it comes to the circumstances that drive us. Charley Patton's "High Water Everywhere" has as much of an effect on us today as it did years ago. With her searing vocals, Block wraps our troubles up with a relaxed country air. She makes our fortunes seem positive. Her slide guitar takes "I Be Bound" on a "devil may care" trip away from the daily grind and on to greener pastures.

Block's originals carry the same timeless message as those of her mentors. She's in the diner with us, having a cup of coffee; strolling the avenue with us, taking care to avoid dark corners; on the road with us, headed for no place in particular; and spending time with us in a lonesome room, crying about the losses that we'll never get back. It's a solace. Her performance soothes and heals. It's what we need more today than ever before.